TPO Award: BBC Community Groups Award

Coming from a typically disadvantaged background, The People’s Orchestra (TPO) were thrilled to learn that they were one of the four finalists shortlisted to receive the BBC Community Groups award. It was a real recognition of their efforts and work to bring members of the community together, helping improve mental health and wellbeing in their communities, through music.

When first starting this charity, TPO had a simple mission, to bring people together through music. And making music more accessible to disadvantaged individuals within the community who have not had the opportunity to continue their talent of playing an instrument. And it is a well-known fact that music has the power to heal and bring people together and what better way to do that, than singing and playing communally. Essentially, using this power to help improve the resilience and mental health and wellbeing in the communities we all live in.

Since their last achievement receiving the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2021, they have grown and expanded their mission and ensembles, now providing work opportunities and employment advice to people across the Midlands, assisting almost 1500 people back into work and placement opportunities. The organisation is commended for its tireless efforts to making a positive impact on the community and inspiring others to create their own ensembles spreading their message. We have seen first-hand the difference their work has made, and they only aim to keep going.

Being nominated for this award was a great display of their hard efforts and will help display their standing among other charities and contribution to our community. Some kind words from their Community Engagement and Recruitment Manager, Chris Weber expressing his gratitude: ‘We are extremely grateful for this recognition and the opportunity to continue our work in the community. This award is an asset to us and will help us raise awareness of our mission and the important work done by our team. We encourage all our audience and members to continue and share our message to make a difference to lives.’

If you are interested in making a difference to your community, we highly encourage you to get involved and contribute to the cause of improving lives. Whether it be volunteering at a local charity, donating to a cause, or even starting your own initiative, every small gesture counts. Together, we can make a difference and give back to our community as TPO have done. If you would like to join or see their efforts, you are welcome to apply on their website https://thepeoplesorchestra.com and see all their videos HERE